Is Merino Wool Good for Summer?

23 June 2023

Pick up an item of high-quality winter clothing or cold-weather activewear, and you might find merino wool in the construction. Merino is known for its excellent insulation properties, so it’s a great choice when it comes to just about all cold-climate activities.

What’s less well-known is that merino wool is also an excellent choice for summer clothing, too. From merino wool socks to breathable sportswear, casual clothes and more, merino wool’s breathability and moisture-wicking capabilities mean it ranks top when it comes to clothing that’s ideal for the summer months.

What is Merino Wool?

Merino wool comes from Merino sheep, which are found primarily across Australia and New Zealand. Merino sheep are renowned for producing a soft, fine wool that’s highly versatile when it comes to clothing construction.

For example, merino wool is much finer and softer than its everyday counterpart, making it less scratchy and more comfortable against the skin. It is also moisture-wicking, able to absorb up to 30% of its weight in water without feeling wet.

Is Merino Wool Good for Summer

Can you wear merino wool in summer? The answer is a resounding yes. When the temperatures start to climb, one of the major benefits of merino wool is its breathability. Merino wool fibres are naturally porous, meaning they allow air to circulate easily around the body, delivering a keep-cool dose of freshness all day.

Secondly, merino wool is great for keeping active in summer, thanks to its moisture-wicking properties. If sweat builds up on the skin due to exercise, the merino fibres draw sweat away from the body, leaving you feeling cool and dry.

Thirdly, merino wool is naturally odour-resistant. This is because the fibres of the wool contain lanolin, which has natural antimicrobial properties. The result: the growth of odour-causing bacteria is kept in check, keeping you feeling fresh and clean even in the hottest and muggiest climates.

Why Merino Wool for Keeping Active in Summer?

When it comes to exercising in hot weather, clothing made from merino can make a real difference to how you feel. For example, merino t-shirts are perfect for hiking, running and other sports. Engineered merino fabrics, as you’ll find in our Merino Tech Lite tees, are particularly comfortable to wear for extended periods. This is due to their sheer feel and lightweight design.

Bottoms aren’t to be forgotten, either. A moisture-wicking pair of merino shorts can help keep you dry and comfortable, even when you're sweating heavily. The breathability of the fabric also allows optimal air flow-through, helping to maximise cooling.

Many people also wonder, are merino socks good for summer? Absolutely. When it comes to summer socks, merino wool socks offer a number of benefits. Their breathability and moisture-wicking properties can help keep your feet dry and even prevent blisters – especially important when you're walking long distances or playing a big match. Merino wool is also antibacterial, meaning no more odour buildup.

Lastly, if the weather is changeable, grab a merino zip top. Our ZoneKnit™ technology balances warmth and breathability while exercising and incorporates strategic panels of eyelet mesh for enhanced airflow. The result: all the natural benefits of merino wool, with an extra dose of cooling.

An All-round Summer Fabric

Whether you’re hiking, running, or just enjoying some rest and relaxation in the summer months, merino wool is a high-performing summer fabric that’ll keep you comfortable and dry, day long.

At icebreaker, we’ve worked hard to refine the natural benefits of merino wool. From our easy-wearing Cool-Lite™ casual summer clothing and activewear to high-performing ZoneKnit™ gear, you’ll find everything you need to keep cool this summer.